Copenhagen Airport has reported its busiest January ever, with 2.2 million passengers passing through its terminals, a rise of 14% compared with the same month last year.
The strong start to the year comes as more travellers head abroad to escape the winter cold, with popular destinations including Spain and Thailand.
Winter sun drives demand
Peter Krogsgaard, chief commercial officer at Copenhagen Airport, said demand had been boosted by passengers seeking warmer climates during Denmark’s winter.
“We have had a strong start to the year and have never before seen more than two million travellers pass through the airport in January,” he said.
Several airlines have added new routes or increased capacity as part of their winter schedules, giving passengers more choice and helping to drive growth.
Growth in Scandinavian travel
Norway, Spain and the UK were the busiest markets in January. Travel between Norway and Copenhagen alone accounted for 214,000 passengers.
Routes to and from other Scandinavian countries also saw strong growth. Passenger numbers between Copenhagen and Norwegian airports rose by 26% year on year, while travel to and from Sweden increased by the same amount, with 147,000 passengers recorded.
Many of these travellers were transfer passengers connecting through Copenhagen to long-haul and European destinations. In total, 612,000 transfer passengers used the airport in January, up by 207,000 on last year.
Newer aircraft reduce noise and emissions
The airport has also seen a sharp increase in the number of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft in operation. Around 39% of aircraft using Copenhagen Airport last year were modern models such as the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, compared with just 5% in 2019.
These aircraft produce less noise and fewer emissions, according to the airport. The proportion of newer aircraft is expected to rise to almost half of all movements within the next year.
To prepare, Copenhagen Airport is expanding aircraft stands and reviewing how its facilities can handle larger and more modern planes.
Busy winter holiday period ahead
The airport is now preparing for a busy winter holiday season. Around 1.37 million passengers are expected to travel through the airport during weeks 7 and 8, about 10% more than last year.
Popular destinations include Asian countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, as well as ski resorts in Switzerland, Italy and Austria. More travellers are also choosing to fly to ski destinations in Sweden and Norway, with direct routes available to several airports close to major resorts.
